I’ve been reading a lot about filters lately. The one big topic that seems to be coming up is the use of graduated neutral density filters. The filter itself can really be useful especially when the upper and lower parts of a photo have extreme lighting differences. Many photographers use them, but there are just as many that don’t. So what do the photographers that don’t use them do to make the right adjustments? They use the graduated neutral density filter tool in Lightroom, Photoshop or another photo editing software.

I personally use the graduated tool in Lightroom mostly because I don’t like consistently changing filters on my camera. The only filter I really utilize right now is a polarizing filter and that is even on a rare occasion. Changing filters to me just wastes time when I can be taking more photos and being more productive as a photographer. Eventually the images have to be taken into a computer software for adjustments anyway, so a little more time on the computer is better than wasting time out in the field and missing opportunities for that great shot.

Do I think my way is best? No, definitely not. Some photographers really know how to utilize filters and make amazing photos with them. They have been working a long time with filters and have a system in place so they know when and where to make the changes.

In the end, it’s what gives the photographer the results they are looking for that matters.